A stunning and beautifully crafted ironstone pitcher with a simple silhouette that allows for the lush, sunny yellow majolica finish to shine.
The underside is stamped “HBCM” which stands for Hippolyte Boulenger-Creil-Montereau, part of Choisy le Roi ironstone manufacturing.
Each one is in good condition, with only trace signs of wear and use.
Please note the extra small pitcher has a crack on the perimeter of the spout as pictured. Pricing reflects this condition.
Sourced from a brocante in the Loire Valley.
NOTES:
The History of Majolica
Majolica, an exquisite ceramic art form, traces its origins to Renaissance Italy, where the technique of applying colorful lead glazes on earthenware flourished. However, it wasn't until the 19th century that the majolica craze swept through England and France, leaving an indelible mark on the world of decorative arts.
Introduced in the 1850s, English majolica gained prominence for its intricate relief-molded designs and vibrant glazes. Inspired by nature, these wares featured botanical motifs, marine life, and mythical creatures, embodying the Victorian fascination with the exotic and whimsical.
The excitement over majolica spread across the channel to France, and factories embraced majolica—also known as barbotine—with fervor. They created playful pieces with that classic majolica burst of lush, rich colour that captured the essence of the era's romanticism.
The competition between English and French artisans fueled a creative renaissance, resulting in some of the most splendid and sought-after majolica pieces that continue to be treasured today.
dimensions
large: 6.25"W x 3.5"D x 7"H
medium: 5"W x 3"D x 6.25"H
small: 4"W x 2.25"D x 4.25"H
x-small: 3.25"W x 1.75"D x 3.25"H